29.Use a short leash for training purposes. Leashes come in many different

lengths, some reach up to 100 feet or more. However, when you are training

your dog, you should always use a leash that is around 6 foot long and comes

with a loop that you can slip your hand through, wrapping it around your

fingers to ensure that the dog doesn’t get away from you. When your dog is

on your left side, keep the leash in front of you with the loop around your right

hand. This will help you to keep the leash short and to maintain control.

30.Start early and keep at it. The most effective time to train any dog is when

they are a young puppy. However, if you are training an older dog, it is best to

begin as soon as possible in order to teach your dog to obey you. Also, it is

important to keep at your training efforts until your dog masters all of the

commands that you may issue. Training is a commitment that must be

entered into seriously, otherwise you may find yourself right back where you

started.

31.Familiarize yourself with your dog’s parents. If possible, try to spend time

with the parents of your dog. Sometimes this is not possible, but when it is an

option there is a lot to be learned. By watching the behaviors of the parents,

you will be able to spot similarities and potential problems that should be

addressed before they become an issue. A good example of what might be a

potential problem is aggression. If you notice that your dog comes from two

aggressive parents, know that there is probably a genetic predisposition to

aggression and consider professional obedience training in this situation.

32.Hire a professional. Sometimes people have the best of intentions when

they get a new dog, however time and other responsibilities may make it

impossible to train a new dog adequately in even the basics of good behavior.

Consider a professional dog trainer in your area if you don’t have the time or

experience to train your dog properly.

33.Do not leave your dog alone for long periods. When your dog is in training,

it is important that he never be left alone for long periods of time. Otherwise,

you will be unable to provide necessary reinforcement for good behaviors and

to divert the dog’s attention for negative behaviors. This can result also in

boredom or anxiety, which will definitely lead to destructive behaviors. So, if

you are leaving your dog alone, place him in an appropriate sized crate in

order to keep momentum with training and to protect your home while you are

away.

34.Teach your dog that nothing in life is free. This interesting training program

is best used after basic commands like sit, down and leave it have been